Front 242 - Front by Front

 Club Classic
I initially bought this CD for 2 reasons; it had the song "Welcome To Paradise" on it, and it was highly recommended as their shining moment, their first album to be cohesive and deep enough or whatever...their coming of age perhaps I guess is what I got out of some reviews? I had read about EBM and how they came about it and all, but really had no idea that they did this song, when I realized they did this song, I had to get this Cd, and it was a relief that I liked just about every other song also, and that I did recognize a few songs from clubs in my youth. "Headhunter" was one of course I had heard before, but didn't really know who did it or the name of the song for that matter, and a couple others sounded familiar also, so who knows when you're young and out ya know?

That's how I got into Nitzer Ebb also, I recommend that band also....but first start with this gem, you will not be able to hold still while this is playing....a true classic.
September 9, 2007

 The fathers of Industrial music?
Is Front 242 the father of Industrial? Probably not, but to me the sound of Head Hunter was the begining of a new era of music for me. This is a great album for people that are looking for that early industrial sound. Much of my mispent youth was in dark clubs grinding away to bands like Front 242, Nitzer Ebb, and Ministry. This album covers all the songs I remember and more I never knew of. January 12, 2007

 Perfect industrial music
The album assualts all previously conceived notions of how an indlustrial album should play, and it did so sucessfully. Catapulting itself into the limelight of industrial megahits, "Headhunter", the unarguable stand-out track of the album, will undoubtedly become etched permenantly onto your subconscious. Every other song is equally powerful and memorable, as well, and the several generous remixes tacked onto the end of this EBM masterpiece are quite respectable in their own rights, especially when compared to some of the atrocious remixes that have originated from such over-played bands as Nine Inch Nails. To sum it all up, this is unequivically one of the best techno-dance/ industrial albums you'll ever likely come across, and the price is hard to beat. NOTE: They're presenting a political/religious satire on track 10, correct? June 19, 2006

 its ok... for old synth music
Although I bought this album in about 2003, it didnt stand up my liking and to where music has evolved to. Yes, it has the classic hit, headhunter on it; if you like the song, download it because buying the album wasnt worth one song. I tried and tried to enjoy the cd through and through but it was lacking and I am let down. For BPM music, its real good but is nothing more than late 80's synth music. It may have been revolutionay, it may have been ground breaking, it may have been influential-- but it is a "has been" and will stay that way in my eyes. Save your money, buying this is like buying a Lords of Acid cd; its just dated aerobic music. November 9, 2005

 My introduction to the Front
Being a fan of industrial/EBM, I hadn't actually gotten to buying a Front album until this, "Front by Front", which is backed with the "Never Stop!" EP and the original "Headhunter" version, found in its single (all on the Epic reissue). I had actually heard some of their songs before, but didn't actually buy until I found it for a rather good price. That being said, it turned out to be really good.

The beginning just confirms that, "Until Death (Us Do Part)". A rather catchy track and one that you'll find yourself listening to the most, it gives the album a sort of appeal.

There are also tracks which are mostly instrumental, like the religious samples of "Welcome to Paradise" or mostly on "Work 01" (great intro sample) and on most of "Blend the Strengths".

Sometimes it is the samples that make it, and sometimes it's the song itself. I'm sure if you're looking here at all that you know the song "Headhunter". The synth line is addictive and so is its chorus. It doesn't need to be explained by EBM fans why this is considered a classic, and the bridge is brilliant. Nearly five minutes of fun, I'm glad they have two versions of it on this album. That should be a reason enough to convince someone to buy this that's just a casual fan.

Honestly, there are sometimes when I don't feel like listening to this. But, in spite that, I think it's very good. I can't decide whether I prefer this or "Tyranny", as they've both got their moments in spite the fact that I wouldn't call either one of my "favorites". Still, I might look more into the Front 242 catalog, as I enjoy listening to lots from them. September 22, 2005

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